Sunderland's strongest starting XI and bench photo gallery after the transfer window - including Leeds loanee
The Black Cats were hopeful they could strengthen their forward options, with top scorer Ross Stewart set to miss the rest of the season with an achilles injury, yet a move didn’t materialise.
While Sunderland were able to make four new additions in January, including Pierre Ekwah, Joe Gelhardt, Isaac Lihadji and Joe Anderson, they also lost Ellis Simms at the start of the month when the frontman was recalled by Everton.
Tony Mowbray’s side are also likely to be without captain Corry Evans for the rest of the season due to an ACL issue, while Elliot Embleton is recovering from a long-term setback.
Excluding the aforementioned injured players, here’s what Sunderland’s starting XI and bench could look like for the remainder of the campaign:
Tony Mowbray’s side are also likely to be without captain Corry Evans for the rest of the season due to an ACL issue, while Elliot Embleton is recovering from a long-term setback.
5. LB: Dennis Cirkin
It was also an up-and-down season for Cirkin, with the 21-year-old overcoming multiple injury setbacks. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
With Evans expected to miss the start of next season, Neil, 21, may have to stay in a deeper midfield role. Photo: Martin Swinney
7. CM: Pierre Ekwah
A January signing who had to wait for his chance but looks like another exciting signing. The 21-year-old was excellent in the first leg of the play-off semi-final against Luton and formed a good partnership with Neil. Photo: Frank Reid
8. RW: Patrick Roberts
This season’s performances has led to reported interest in Roberts, with the 26-year-old scoring five goals and providing seven assists. Photo: Martin Swinney